What is an Event Planner?

An event planner is a person whose job is to plan, organize, promote and/or run social events such as parties, fundraisers, or formal meetings. Event planners plan and manage events for individuals, private corporations or government establishments in return for a fee. They are also known as catering managers, conference planning managers, event managers or corporate planners.

An event planner should be creative, imaginative, innovative, precise, and good at managing finances, budgets, and people. They may choose to become a generalist event planner, one who plans all sort of events, or a specialized event planner, one who specializes in planning only one type of event such as wedding receptions, birthday parties, formal meetings or product launchings.

Pursue a career in event planning if you are good at planning and organizing, managing people, and problem solving.

What does an Event Planner do?

Event planners may do some or all of the following:

consult with a client to understand their requirements for an event

carry out research and develop a concept for the event

create an outline for the event

establish and manage the budget for the event

select and book a venue for the event

inspect event facilities

arrange for refreshments, décor and entertainments

supervise staff and coordinate their activities

send invitation to guests

deal with inquires and arrange accommodation for guests

plan and develop program agenda

Working Conditions

Event planners may work normal office hours or long irregular hours including evenings, mid nights, weekends and public holidays. They work in offices and at locations of activities. They may travel for work and be away from home for a period of time. Their job can be stressful and exhaustive as it involves careful planning and execution of plans and working to meet strict deadlines.

What is Required to Become an Event Planner?

There are no standard educational requirements to become an event planner, but a diploma or degree in event management, public relations, hospitality management, travel/tourism management or communications is helpful.

In event planning, experience is more important than academic qualifications and a good work portfolio is always preferred to certificates. People interested in the field can gain experience by working for established event planners and event management companies or hotels.